Brigitte Macron’s health has reportedly deteriorated as a result of ongoing conspiracy theories questioning her gender, according to her daughter, Tiphaine Auzière. During a court hearing on March 15, 2024, Auzière expressed concern over the impact of these unfounded claims on her mother, who is the French first lady and wife of President Emmanuel Macron. The hearing is part of a trial involving ten individuals accused of disseminating harmful rumors about Brigitte Macron.
Auzière explained that her mother has been compelled to alter her appearance and clothing choices due to the incessant scrutiny. “She knows that her image could be taken and distorted,” Auzière stated, highlighting how Brigitte is now more conscious of her “postures” and “outfits.” The emotional toll of the rumors extends to her grandchildren, who have also become aware of the accusations. “It was important to be here today to express the prejudice. I wanted to report what her life has been like since she suffered this hatred,” Auzière added.
The trial involves ten defendants, including eight men and two women aged between 41 and 65, who face up to two years in prison if convicted of spreading “numerous malicious comments” online regarding Brigitte Macron’s gender and sexuality. The defendants have dismissed the charges, claiming their posts were intended as humor and fall under the umbrella of free speech.
Among the more disturbing claims made by the defendants is the assertion that the 25-year age gap between the Macrons constitutes “pedophilia.” President Macron met Brigitte when she was a teacher at his school, and he was just 15 years old.
The Macrons began legal action two years ago in response to persistent online rumors suggesting that Brigitte was born as Jean-Michel Trogneux and underwent gender reassignment surgery. This narrative has been categorically denied by the family, with Auzière stating, “I saw my uncle a few months ago; he’s in great shape,” referring to Jean-Michel, Brigitte’s older brother.
The current trial follows a recent defamation lawsuit filed by the Macrons in the United States against conservative commentator Candace Owens, who made similar allegations about Brigitte being transgender. Some of the individuals on trial had shared posts from Owens on their social media accounts.
In a bid to counter the rumors, the Macron family plans to present “scientific” evidence and photographs to substantiate Brigitte’s gender identity, according to their legal representatives in the United States.
As the trial progresses, Brigitte Macron is not expected to attend court proceedings. The outcome of this case could have significant implications for how public figures are protected against online harassment and the spread of misinformation.
